JAN’S ACCOMMODATION FACT SHEET SERIES
Job Accommodations for People
with Burn Injuries
Burn injuries are classified in three ways: first, second, and third degree. First degree burns involve only the top layer of skin and are characterized by pain, redness, and swelling. Second degree burns involve the first and second layer of skin and are characterized by blistering of the skin, redness, and swelling and are very painful. Third degree burns are the most severe and often result in extensive scarring. They can require a long recovery time and may result in severe limitations.
Individuals with burn injuries may have motor impairments, temperature sensitivities, and psychosocial issues. The following is a quick overview of some of the job accommodations that might be useful for employees with burn injuries. For a more in depth discussion, access JAN's publications at http://askjan.org/media/atoz.htm. To discuss an accommodation situation with a consultant, contact JAN directly.
Gross Motor Impairment:
· Modify the work-site to make it accessible
· Provide parking close to the work-site
· Provide an accessible entrance
· Install automatic door openers
· Provide an accessible restroom and break room
· Provide an accessible route of travel to other work areas used by the employee
· Modify the workstation to make it accessible
· Adjust desk height if wheelchair or scooter is used
· Make sure materials and equipment are within reach range
· Move workstation close to other work areas, office equipment, and break rooms
· Provide material lifts
· Provide stand/lean stools
· Provide anti-fatigue matting
Fine Motor Impairment:
· Implement ergonomic workstation design, including arm supports
· Provide alternative computer and telephone access
· Provide writing and grip aids, a page turner, and a book holder
· Provide a note taker
· Provide anti-vibration gloves and tool balancers
Heat Sensitivity:
· Reduce work-site temperature and use fan/air-conditioner at workstation
· Use cool vest or other cooling clothing
· Allow flexible scheduling and work from home during hot weather
Cold Sensitivity:
· Increase work-site temperature
· Use portable space heaters
· Dress in layers using thermal material or fleece
· Wear gloves
· Provide heated clothing
· Allow work from home during cold weather
Coworkers Interaction:
· Educate all employees on their rights to accommodations
· Provide sensitivity training to coworkers and supervisors
· Do not mandate that employees attend work-related social functions
· Encourage all employees to move non-work related conversations out of work areas
Stress and Emotions:
· Provide praise and positive reinforcement
· Refer to counseling and employee assistance programs
· Allow telephone calls during work hours to doctors and others for needed support
· Allow the presence of a support animal
· Allow the employee to take breaks as needed
Sleep Disorder:
· Allow flexible work hours, frequent breaks, and work from home
Resources Specifically for People with Burn Injuries
American Burn Association
625 North Michigan Ave
Suite 2550
Chicago, IL 60611
Toll Free: (800)548-2876
Direct: (312)642-9260
Fax: (312)642-9130
http://www.ameriburn.org
Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors, Inc.
1835 R W Berends Drive Sw
Grand Rapids, MI 49519
Toll Free: (800)888-2876
Direct: (616)458-2773
Fax: (616)458-2831
http://www.phoenix-society.org
This document was developed by the Job Accommodation Network, funded by a contract agreement from the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Disability Employment Policy (DOL079RP20426). The opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the position or policy of the U.S. Department of Labor. Nor does mention of trade names, commercial products, or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. Department of Labor.
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